Alex and Michael’s gay engagement session at UVA’s Lawn took place on one of those overcast Charlottesville afternoons that makes you want to stay outside forever. We connected with them midway through a marathon adventure week! After flying from Miami to DC, driving down to Charlottesville, attending their catering tasting, and touring wineries for wedding wine ideas, they somehow still showed up ready and excited for photos. The next morning, they’d be catching a train back to New York, but during the session, they slowed down and simply enjoyed being together. We wandered through Central Grounds and UVA’s gardens, laughing constantly as Alex joked about avoiding his side profile while Michael quietly smiled beside him 😂

Their chemistry balanced perfectly. Alex brought playful, cuddly energy to the session, while Michael’s quieter personality grounded everything in a calm, genuine way. The two of them interacted so naturally together, especially in the quieter moments between photos. And as UVA Law alumni, Charlottesville held deep meaning for them, even if the Lawn itself wasn’t exactly their home turf. The Rotunda and Lawn were more of a stunning architectural backdrop than a symbol of school pride. What mattered more were the memories attached to the place. They met through an LGBTQ student group during law school and started dating near the end of their first year. Their gay engagement session at UVA’s Lawn felt less like revisiting Grounds, and more like revisiting the beginning of their story together!

Alex and Michael,

Thank you for trusting us to capture such an exciting season of your lives. We loved getting to wander around Grounds with you, hear more of your story, and photograph the connection you’ve built together over the years. Your engagement session at UVA’s Lawn felt joyful, relaxed, and deeply personal in all the best ways. We’re so excited to celebrate with you both at the wedding next May!

With love,
Sarah and Hunter

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